SEPTEMBER 11, 2014 | VOL. 92 NO. 1 | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG
STUDENT PRODUCED SINCE 1924
New class begins college journey
Student disciplined for setting gym fires By NICK FARRELL Executive Editor
Campus security and local police responded to two small fires in the old gym at the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse Aug. 28 that resulted in the discipline of one student. At approximately 8:30 p.m. that night, students involved in Sting Swing reported the first of two fires to campus security before another fire was discovered about 40 minutes later, according to the campus’ head of security. “We got a call from a student stating there was a fire in a garbage can located directly outside the old gym,” said Mike Humiston, director of the Department of Public Safety. “Security responded and put out that fire. Shortly after, a second fire in a women’s restroom garbage can was
Gregory Reinhart, University Relations
A group of freshmen participate in an activity during orientation weekend Aug. 22-24. Due to a smaller freshman class of approximately 370 students, overall enrollment at the university fell this year.
Fewer high school grads results in smaller freshman class By KIMMI BASTON
See FIRE on A4
Incoming class sizes at Waynesburg University
Managing Editor
In 2013, Waynesburg University welcomed one of the largest freshmen classes in its history. This year, it ushered in the smallest class in more than five years. Jessica Sumpter, director of the Department of Admissions, said the small size of this year’s freshmen class is due in part to conscious decisions from the university, but may also be part of what she feels is a new era in college enrollment nationwide. Compared to 2013, the number of high school graduates in 2014 decreased by three percent, both nationally and in Pennsylvania. “There are fewer high school graduates, [but] there’s still the same number of colleges and universities,” said Sumpter. “So, ultimately, that makes for fewer students for the same number of universities.” With the exception of 2013, the university has admitted at least 400 students each fall. This year, only 370 were admitted. Sumpter believes this may be a reflection of falling enrollment rates everywhere. In addition to the national college climate, however, Waynesburg did make the choice to bring in a smaller class than last year’s, which included 451 students. “We knew we couldn’t hold the same class as 2013,” said Sumpter.
University recognized again for value By JOHN LYDIC
Multimedia Manager
Another ranking has Waynesburg atop the best value schools in America, something that does not surprise Waynesburg faculty members. Educate to Career recently ranked Waynesburg 104th out of 1,200 schools in best values across the country. The ranking is one of many lists Waynesburg has made since 2013, and it comes as no surprise to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Jacquelyn Core. “I think we have always been a great value,” said Core. “I just think value and affordability is a more important metric than it has been in the past. I think there are more people taking notice of
INSIDE:
See VALUE on A4
475
By JENNY SCHOUPPE Convergence Editor
471
450
451
453
445
451 433
425 400
401
375 350
370 2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Total enrollment at Waynesburg University 1425
1418
2007: Largest incoming class in school history
1418
1400
2014: Smallest incoming class size and lowest total enrollment since 2006
1394
1375 1350 1325
New students adjust to life at Waynesburg
1354 2011
2012
2013
2014
“So we did make some strategic decisions to make sure that we did not have a class of 451.” The Department of Admissions made changes in admissions criteria and the way that scholarships are issued, among other things. A major factor in the decision to admit fewer students was a lack of extra housing.
Information gathered from Department of Admissions
“We realized that we couldn’t have the capacity of housing where it was [in 2013], so we were shooting for a lower number to begin with for the fall 2014 class,” said Sumpter. Chris Hardie, director of Housing and Assistant Dean of Student See ENROLLMENT on A4
Incoming students complete service project, A2 · Complete orientation weekend recap, D1
Throughout the years spent at a college or university, students face a variety of challenges. For a freshman, this list may seem neverending. Whether you travel 30 minutes up the road to go to school or travel J A C K E T L I F E a c r o s s An occasional series the country, freshman year brings a whole new level to being out of one’s comfort zone. For some freshmen, their first year in college may also mark the first time they have to study hard, live with another person, find a job and experience homesickness. Homesickness is a common emotion during the years spent away at school. For those who live close to campus and can make the time to travel home, homesickness is not as much of an issue. It is a feeling that freshman Moesha Godwin knows all too well. Godwin, a forensic science major, grew up in Bronx, New York with her mom, dad See FRESHMEN on A4
In realignment, former Bonner to serve as ‘voice’ of program By SAMANTHA PEER Managing Editor
Adam Jack has come full circle in his career at Waynesburg. Jack received his undergraduate degree from Waynesburg University, serving as a part of the third class of Bonner Scholars, giving 2,000 hours of his time to community service from 1994-1998. Now, Jack is an assistant professor and chair of
the Department of Criminal Justice and Social Science. Though those positions already take much of Jack’s time, he will now wear another hat as the director of the Bonner Scholars. “It’s an additional duty, but it is something that I have a passion for,” said Jack. “It is a part of my life that I really enjoy doing.” Due to his experience as a Bonner Scholar, Jack brings a natural ability to lead the group.
“I think that when you believe in something and have been a part of it before, you bring a natural love and passion,” said Jack. “Having been a Bonner Scholar, I know what the students are going through. I know what it felt like to be a freshman showing up for the first day. I was in their shoes, and I think that helps me to relate to them.” Though equipped to lead the Bonners through his experience
as a student, Jack is humbled by the opportunity he has been afforded to serve as. “I am humbled that the university asked me to take this position, and that the president and provost and the administration thought highly enough of me to put me into a prestigious position of the Bonner Program,” said Jack.
“Ultimately, I believe that serving as a Bonner Scholar helped to mold me into the person I am today.”
ADAM JACK
New Director of Bonner Scholars
See BONNERS on A4
INSIDE
RYERSON TO RETURN
FOOTBALL BLANKS MUSKIES
BONNER NAMED GOOD CITIZEN
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Ryerson Station State Park and Duke Lake will undergo reconstruction due to an agreement being reached between CONSOL and the state.
Waynesburg's stout defense earns first home shutout in a decade.
Senior Rebecca Lane receives a scholarship for her dedicated service work, particularly educating children in third-world nations.
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